Eastern Cape teacher faces court over human trafficking and prostitution involving young women
Vuyokazi Gana was arrested on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at her workplace.
Image: Supplied
A 52-year-old Eastern Cape teacher appeared in the East London Magistrate’s Court on Thursday where she is facing allegations of human trafficking and sexual exploitation and running a brothel.
Vuyokazi Gana was arrested on Wednesday at her workplace.
Provincial Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana, said investigations which started in September 2023 revealed that Gana who works at a school in East London, has been recruiting young women from Qumbu, Mthatha, and Ngqeleni.
"The victims were allegedly transported from different areas to East London, where they were ostensibly housed at the suspect’s residence and coerced into prostitution," said Mhlakuvana.
Mhlakuvana added that preliminary findings revealed that the victims were engaged in sexual activities with various clients, from whom they reportedly received payments.
"The suspect supposedly profited from these illegal activities by charging accommodation fees ranging between R250 and R300 per night, depending on the room. It is further alleged that she personally collected the proceeds or directed the victims to transfer the funds through her Bank account," said Mhlakuvana.
Gana is facing charges of trafficking in persons, sexual exploitation and running an illegal brothel.
Gana remains in custody and will appear again in court on October 23, 2025, for formal bail application.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Head of Hawks, Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, commended the persistent efforts of the investigating team and reiterated the Hawks’ commitment to dismantling organised criminal networks that prey on vulnerable individuals in the province.
sinenhlanhla.masilela@iol.co.za
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